15 Hacks That’ll Make You Feel Rich (Even If You’re Not)
While having a million dollars would certainly be nice, true wealth isn’t just about how many zeroes are in your bank account. It’s also about taking advantage of small luxuries that elevate our everyday lives. By prioritizing small indulgences that cultivate a sense of abundance, we can improve our quality of life without breaking the bank.
From simple self-care rituals to mindful and fulfilling touches at home, here are 15 easy hacks that Redditors say can make you feel richer than you actually are.
1. Flossing
“Secret trick to no morning breath ever!” – u/yellowlinedpaper
For something that costs a few bucks and takes less than five minutes, flossing weirdly does makes you feel like you’ve got your life in order. Plus, you’ll save money on dental bills in the long run by taking better care of your teeth now.
2. A Clean Car
“Keep inside of car clean and smelling good.” – u/hoodEtoh
Keeping your car clean and organized is another life hack that Redditors swear by. Just a quick five minute tidy-up and a spritz of air freshener can make every drive feel like you’re cruising in a luxury vehicle. Plus, you won’t have to worry about hastily cleaning out fast-food wrappers when giving someone a ride again.
3. Bathrobes
“Wearing a bathrobe.” – u/keepplaylistsmessy
I mean, what’s more relaxing and luxurious than throwing on a plush bathrobe after taking a nice, long bath?
4. A Spotless Apartment
“Keeping my apartment spotless. And my pets happy and healthy.” – u/Competitive-Wolf-277
A clean apartment with happy pets is like living in your own personal five-star resort — minus the sky-high room service fees. Just a few minutes of tidying each day means you’ll always come home to a space that feels calm, clean, and put-together.
5. Al Fresco Reading
“Reading a book outside.” – u/penalty-venture
Reading a good book outdoors isn’t just enjoyable — it can also do wonders for your health. The combination of fresh air, natural light, and mental stimulation can boost your mood and even improve your sleep quality.
6. At-Home Spa
“A long bath with cheap plain Epsom salts and a few drops of essential oils with a spa playlist on.” – u/Far_Interaction8477
A nice bath is the ultimate budget spa hack, Redditors say. Just $5 worth of Epsom salts and a few drops of essential oils can transform your tub at home into a luxurious detox treatment to help ease achy muscles and promote relaxation. Add a playlist and your nervous system won’t know you spent less on this “spa day” than you did on a cup of coffee.
7. An Upgraded Bagel
“Putting capers on my bagel. One jar is $5 and lasts months!” – u/keepplaylistsmessy
Upgrading your bagel with ingredients that feel luxurious (think capers and lox or whipped cream cheese with herbs) is the ultimate flex to make even the blandest of meals feel fancy. Suddenly, “gourmet” is just remembering to twist open a lid.
8. Using Fresh Herbs
“Having fresh herbs to use in cooking.” – u/Bunnybeth
Fresh herbs are the ultimate kitchen cheat code. A $3 basil plant turns scrambled eggs or a plate of pasta into brunch-worthy fare, while a few chopped green onions can make even takeout feel fancier when you sprinkle some on top.
9. A Library Card
“I finally got myself a library card so I can download audiobooks for free.” – u/katharsister
A library card can be the ultimate adventure by turning audiobooks into exciting escapades. Suddenly, commutes aren’t as tedious when you’ve got a thrilling mystery or sci-fi adventure unfolding in your earbuds while you run errands.
10. Listening to Vinyl
“Vinyls playing jazz at home.” – u/Rooniebob
In recent years, vinyl has made a comeback as more people crave the warm, richer sound of analog music. There’s just something special (and nostalgic) about hearing that warm crackle between notes while enjoying some smooth jazz. Wondering if the records you have at home are worth anything? Check out our story on valuable vinyl records.
11. Thrifted Luxury Clothing
“Having a thrifted wardrobe full of higher-end brands at a fraction of the original prices.” – u/Few_Onion9863
Who said looking snazzy has to break the bank? While it can take a bit of time and effort, buying secondhand doesn’t just help you save money, it also supports the environment by reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
12. Community Pools
“Swimming at the community center.” – u/bylviapylvia
Did you know that swimming is one of the most effective ways to stay fit without overworking your joints? As a low-impact sport, doing just a few laps at your local pool can help in burning calories, building lean muscle, and even relieving stress.
13. Upscale Lotions
“Using a nice moisturizer or lotion.” – u/fabgwenn
Having a good skincare routine (consider at least investing in a quality toner and moisturizer) can do wonders for your self-esteem while preventing issues like wrinkles, acne, or skin irritation. Plus, you’ll save money in the long run by taking care of your skin now and not having to spend a fortune on treatments like Botox to undo damage later on.
14. A Day Off
“A couple of times a year, I’ll write an entire day off for myself.” – u/glytxh
Whether it’s indulging at home with your favorite movies and snacks, going on a long hike, journaling, or attending a yoga class, taking time for yourself every now and then is key in recharging your mind and body. Plus, this kind of self-care doesn’t require a big budget — it just takes the willingness to press pause and prioritize yourself without feeling guilty.
15. Cooking
“Learning to cook makes me feel rich because we eat like kings and queens.” – u/Bunnyeatsdesign
Because sometimes real luxury isn’t just about the food you’re eating; it’s about knowing that you’ll never have to settle for bland or overpriced meals again. Plus, when you turn affordable and simple ingredients into meals that the whole family enjoys, you’re not just saving money. You’re also getting peace of mind by knowing exactly what’s going into the dish.